Work Ethics vs Vavi

Work ethics are a set of rules which direct the actions of the employees/participants within the work place or within any organization. Therefore, by faulty human logic, failure to adhere to the instruction stipulated by – what the work ethics in that company or organisation are – would result in a disciplinary hearing in which the fate of the employee will be decided.

The above statement is closely related to the COSATU general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi. Who recently had recently been accused of rape by a colleague, whom later withdrew the charges? Whether or not the rape accusation was espionage, solely depends on which side the pendulum swings – for the observer. However, there is no question about the moral decadence exuding from the fact that Vavi took part in extra marital sex. In relation to work, was he wrong? In hopes to unfold Vavi’s innocence - or guilt thereof, 3 examples of good work ethics will be employed.

1. 1.    Reliability.

This refers to the person’s ability to be punctual and creating a friendly environment around themselves therefore giving other employees a sense of unity. Furthermore somebody that they can turn to

1. 2.    Dedication

This is how much the individual is actually focused on work and not easily distracted by obstruction that do no remotely relate work. Furthermore it emphasizes on whether or not tasks in the work place are completed or not.

1. 3.    Personal relationships

“Where a personal relationship exists or develops between members of staff who are in a line management or supervisory relationship at work, they must not be involved in recruitment, selection, appraisal, promotion or in any other management activity or process involving the other party. Additionally, staff in a personal relationship should not work together in any circumstance whereby a conflict of interest, breach of confidentiality or unfair advantage may be perceived to be gained from the overlap of a personal and professional relationship.” (UCL, 2013)

Number 3 most certainly hit the spot. So, no matter what justification is provided for the events that occurred. It was wrong for the general secretary to engage in, what is said to be consensual sex with junior member within the organization. Because it can then be seen as exchanging sex for favours because it seems the young lady was hired on the premise that she has sex with Vavi which is an act which defies Good work ethics. Especially when it is a personal relationship that evolved inside or outside the work place.

Vavi is guilty on two ethical counts 1 cheating on his wife and 2 bad work ethics for having sex with a colleague.

UCL. 2013. Personal relationships code of conduct. http://www.ucl.ac.uk/hr/docs/personal_relationships.php. [Accessed August 16 2013].